Antigua and Barbuda is likely to experience a drier-than-normal 2026, with drought conditions expected to persist throughout the year. According to Antigua News Room, the forecast comes from meteorologist Dale Destin of 268Weather, who is urging residents and authorities to prioritise water conservation and proactive planning.
Destin's latest outlook places a 69% chance of below-normal rainfall for the year, with only a slim probability of above-average totals. Both the dry season and the upcoming wet season are forecast to underperform, reinforcing concerns about prolonged dryness across the island.
Total rainfall for 2026 is projected at around 904 mm — significantly below the long-term average. Destin notes the possibility that annual totals could rank among the lowest on record.
The likely development of El Niño is identified as a key contributing factor. The climate phenomenon typically suppresses rainfall across the Caribbean region and is expected to influence conditions throughout the Lesser Antilles.
Conditions so far in 2026 have already trended dry, and the pattern is forecast to continue, raising concerns for water availability and agriculture across the region.
Destin warned that the outlook makes water conservation and early planning essential, as drought conditions could intensify in the months ahead.
